By Andrew Kariuki
A family in Kiminini Sub-County, Trans-Nzoia County, is seeking justice for their 23-year-old son who died in a road accident involving a vehicle in Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale’s convoy in Kisumu earlier this month.
Three weeks after the incident, the body of Hillary Kiptoo Longi remains in a morgue, with the family expressing frustration over the slow pace of investigations and lack of government support.
The accident occurred on the evening of March 8 at the Otonglo area along the Kisumu–Busia highway, when a Prado vehicle from the convoy collided with a tuk-tuk that was ferrying passengers. Three people died in the crash, including Kiptoo.
The vehicles involved were identified as a Ministry of Health Prado (KCS 006B / GKB 542U) and a Piaggio tuk-tuk (KTWQ 805P).
It has since emerged that Kiptoo, a Form Four leaver, had deferred his university admission due to financial constraints.
His family says they have yet to receive any official communication or support from the government regarding the investigation into his death.
They noted that the only assistance received so far came from Deputy Inspector General of Police Gilbert Masengeli, who helped facilitate the transportation of the body from Kisumu to Kiminini Cottage Hospital.
Relatives and friends have called for accountability, expressing concern that investigations appear to have stalled while the body remains unburied.
“We are deeply affected because we do not have funds to give him a proper send-off. All we hope is that the family gets justice,” said relative Henry Kinisu.
The family is now seeking an audience with the government to arrange a proper burial and secure compensation.
“It is very sad for us. We were very shocked to hear the news of his sudden death,” said his father, Joseph Longin, who explained that he first learned of the incident through his elder son, Abel.
Abel Longin recounted the moment he saw his brother at the hospital.
“I was called and informed that he had been involved in an accident. When I rushed to the hospital in Kisumu, he had already been pronounced dead. He had serious chest and head injuries and his legs were broken,” he said.
Kiptoo’s mother, Beatrice Wamukota, said the family is still coming to terms with the loss and called for a thorough investigation.
“He had so many plans for the future. His decision to work before joining university showed his dedication and humility,” she said.
She urged authorities to probe the circumstances surrounding her son’s death and provide compensation.
“Just like the victims of the recent Webuye accident received support, we are asking the government to assist us and ensure justice,” she added.
The grieving family described Kiptoo as humble, hardworking, and full of promise, saying his death has left them devastated and uncertain about how to proceed without support.
